Saturday, January 30, 2010

Jan Smith Jewelry

We recently became aware of a jewelry exhibition currently showing at Facèré Jewelry Art Gallery:
"JuJu Magic" runs from January 27, 2010 - February 15, 2010.
 
"JuJu Magic" is a contemporary jewelry art show featuring seventeen artists with magic in mind.

As the gallery describes it - Juju is a word of West African origin that refers to the supernatural power ascribed to an object or fetish. The object that contains the juju can then be used to cure ailments (good juju) or even exact revenge (bad juju). The artists of this "JuJu Magic" exhibition have created their own interpretations of this theme: from mnemonic devices for prayer and mementos of home to amulets for protection and charmed objects.

Some of the Jewelry Artists in this exhibition include: Allyson Bone, Nancy Bonnema, Jessica Calderwood, Susan Chin, Christina Goodman, Janice P. Ho, Judith Hoyt, Nicole Jacquard, Maya Kini, Christy Klug, Karen McCreary, Jan Smith, Cindy Sumner, and Cynthia Toops.

Let's take a look at some examples of the one-of-a-kind jewelry included in this exhibition -- Here is an adorable brooch made by Jan Smith called, 'Loves Me,' fabricated in sterling silver, enamel on copper, and 22k gold bimetal.




Jan has also contributed an exuberant neckpiece and earring set in sterling silver and enamel on copper called 'Protection From Crazy Makers.'
 
 

If you get an opportunity to visit this exhibition in person, let us know. OK?

Tuesday, January 26, 2010

Bonnie Blandford Jewelry

Jewelry made by metalsmith, Bonnie Blandford has a satisfying sense of solidity.   It strikes a chord with us and we find her jewelry has a flavor that is distinct and unambiguous.
Each design has a calm, serene feeling with a twist of fun mixed in.
This pendant is from Bonnie's Black Gold Series.




Here is a one-of-a-kind brooch made with sterling silver, 24k gold and an opal.  The asymmetrical design suits it perfectly.




and here are earrings she has made with colored sterling.




Never boring, always pretty, often surprising, Bonnie's work is fun and inspiring.
What do you think?